Turin, Italy, is once again set to come alive this weekend with a myriad of food festivals celebrating the region's rich culinary traditions. On March 22 and 23, 2025, enthusiasts of local gastronomy will gather across cities and towns in the Piedmont region, making it an ideal time for locals and tourists alike to explore the flavors of the season.
One of the highlights of this culinary celebration will be the new offerings at Ristorante Carignano, headed by the innovative Chef Davide Scabin, whose creations are showcased in the menu antologico250/100 featuring a selection of his most imaginative dishes. Ingredients are sourced locally, harmonizing flavors with the history of Piedmont's cuisine. The menu includes a unique dish called Cioccolato & Co, which combines Valrhona Guanaja 70% chocolate, chestnut honey, and calendula petals, paired with the splendid Banyuls L’ Etoile Doré, a sweet wine made from Grenache grapes. "The menu antologico250/100 is a showcase of Chef Davide Scabin’s innovative dishes," according to the restaurant's information. Diners can savor these culinary delights until May 31, 2025.
Notably, the Panificio Papale, a century-old bakery located in Turin's San Salvario district, recently reopened its doors following extensive renovations. The bakery, originally founded over a hundred years ago as Fratelli Ubertalle, has been an integral part of the community's food landscape. The Papale family took over the bakery in the 1970s, and now Gisella and her brother Roberto are at the helm, guiding the establishment into the future while respecting its historical roots.
The renovation was a labor of love that aimed to marry traditional aesthetics with contemporary design. "We wanted to honor our family’s legacy while also introducing contemporary flavors," mentioned Gisella Papale. The revamped space allows for a cozy café setting with a focus on quality, where patrons can enjoy breakfast or a light aperitif. Alongside their traditional bread offerings, Panificio Papale now highlights specialty coffee, thanks to the consultancy of Alessio Simonetta. "This café space will allow us to serve specialty coffee prepared with care," Simonetta explained.
The bakery not only boasts its famed breads but has also incorporated a selection of regional specialties influenced by its founders’ roots. Customers can find traditional products from Puglia, such as cartellate around Christmas, alongside classic Neapolitan pastries like pastiera at Easter. The unique pastries are the result of a carefully maintained family starter yeast, which has been passed down through generations. Visitors can expect to find an array of items from sweet to savory, including the famous biova and various types of grissini.
This engaging culinary scene continues with numerous festivals across Turin and the wider Piedmont region, dedicated to local products and authentic recipes. Among the scheduled events are Suoni e Sapori del – Festa Pugliese in Turin, Un borgo di Cioccolato in Borgo San Dalmazzo, and the Fiera di San Giuseppe in San Damiano d’Asti. Many of these festivals will feature stalls offering gourmet delicacies, artisanal products, and a festive atmosphere perfect for families and friends.
On Saturday and Sunday, visitors should not miss All’ombra dei Ciliegi in Fiore, running from March 22 to March 30 in Venaria Reale, where they can admire breathtaking cherry blossom displays alongside food stalls. Another highlight will be Follia in Fiore 2025, taking place in Collegno, inviting attendees to enjoy a lively celebration amidst blooming flowers.
Overall, this weekend promises a celebration of food that honors tradition while embracing modernity. Whether you're indulging in innovative dishes crafted by top chefs or exploring the charm of local bakeries like Panificio Papale, Turin's culinary landscape is ready to welcome everyone. So, for food lovers and adventurers, grab your friends and family, and immerse yourself in the sights, smells, and tastes that only this vibrant Italian city can offer! Don't forget to check local event pages for any updates or changes to festival timings before heading out.
